asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware that the US Customs Service puts the value of counterfeit goods at the retail level in the United States at between $18 and $19 billion, and that the International Chamber of Commerce estimates that total world trade in counterfeit goods is worth approximately $60 billion, that the Swiss clock industry estimates its annual losses at SWF 1 billion and that counterfeit trade in the EC must be estimated at several billion ECUs per year; and if he will make a statement on the matter in relation to the level of penetration in Ireland and consequences of counterfeit goods.
Written Answers. - Trade in Counterfeit Goods.
22.
I am aware that in recent years there has been a significant increase in international trade in counterfeit goods generally. There have been no complaints or representations from industry or consumer interests here so that it is reasonable to assume that such trade constitutes no difficulties here at present.
I am happy to tell the Deputy that I am keeping the situation under observation. Initiatives have been taken internationally to eliminate counterfeit trade. My Department are actively involved in supporting such initiatives both at EC level and under the auspices of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.
The consequences of counterfeiting include disruption of trade, consequent loss of employment and in some cases risks to the health and safety of consumers.
Question No. 23 re-entered for oral reply.